The Kano State NNPP Gubernatorial Candidate Engr. Abba K Yusuf said the police are to be blamed for increase of political violence in the state.
The candidate disclosed this today at the Kano Peace Summit organised by the State Police Command in partnership with AMG Foundation and other civil society organisations under the auspices of G31.
In a statement signed by his Spokesperson Sanusi Bature Dawakin Tofa, Abba Gida Gida said the opposition parties in Kano are united against any form of intimidation and blackmail by the ruling APC, explaining that it uses the incumbency factor for victimisation of selected members of the society.
He recalled how frequent violent attacks were orchestrated by the State APC Chairman Abdullahi Abbas and his son Sani Abdullahi Abbas AKA (Ochi).
The NNPP Gubernatorial Candidate further suggested that unless the police and other security agencies are ready to conduct their duly professionally with utmost fairness and objectivity, the people of Kano should be allowed to explore the means of self defence as provided by the constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria.
“We have seen how some police officers aiding and abetting violent attacks by the APC political thugs, my entourage was attacked and our family house in Chiranchi quarters of Gwale Local Government was also attacked, despite several written complaints, no action was taken till date”.
Abba Gida Gida also assured his commitment and that of his party, the NNPP to give maximum cooperation for the conduct of free, fair, credible and of course peaceful elections in 2023 if thesecurity and the electoralumpire remain unbiased.
In a swift response, the Commissioner of Police, Kano State Command CP Mamman Dauda reiterated his readiness to work with all stakeholders in ensuring peaceful coexistence in the before, during and after the elections.
While making a closing remark on behalf of the Civil Society partners, Dr. Aminu Magashi Garba who is also the founder of AMG Foundation confirmed commitment to promoting peace and security throughout the election process.